Graham EDWARDS Obituary

I first got to know Graham through work, when we were both at Wilkinson Wilberfoss in Napier in the late 1970s. He struck me as a friendly, helpful and courteous colleague and I enjoyed working with Graham.
From 1990, when I became a Chartered Accountant, our paths crossed again as Graham had embarked on a long journey of service with the accounting body, the Institute of Chartered Accountants as it was then known. But around 2005 we caught up properly when I successfully stood for election onto the Hawkes Branch of the Institute. Graham had already been the branch councilor for some years, and he quickly and skillfully brought me 'up to speed' with how the branch functioned, and what issues it faced. A few years later I became the branch chairman, and by this time had grown to really appreciate Graham for his in-depth knowledge, and his ever-smiling face and encouragement. I initially didn't think we had much in common, but as the years rolled by I came to realise that I had been quite wrong. Graham also had a wickedly dry sense of humour, and this spilled into his writing of articles for our branch magazine. One in particular, at the commencement of the 2010 World Cup, about his soccer days at school, was pure comedic genius...a self-deprocating marvel of witty prose to rival anything from Fred Dagg or Billy T James!
For years after our stints with the Institute, we continued to meet up for a curry lunch at a local Indian restaurant - by this time the friendship was cemented, and it was just time for us to enjoy Graham's company, his wit and humour, his anecdotes, and just his presence.
Farewell, Graham. You were one of life's 'good guys,' and we'll miss you for all time. To Sharon and family, please accept my condolences, and thanks so much for so generously 'lending' him to us for all those good times we had together.

So sorry to hear of Graham's passing. Such good memories of our years together in Rotary and business. Such a clever and kind man. My thoughts with Sharon and the kids.